Jessica's family 'betrayed by Stevens'

Thursday 12 August 2004 23:00 BST

The family of Soham murder victim Jessica Chapman today said they felt "betrayed" by Brian Stevens.

In a rare public statement the Chapman family, who have maintained a dignified silence throughout their harrowing ordeal, condemned their former family liaison officer for exploiting his role in the Soham investigation during his trial.

The statement from Sharon and Leslie Chapman and their daughters Alison and Rebecca said: "We would like to express our sense of huge disappointment in Brian Stevens.

"We asked him to read a poem on our behalf at the celebration of life service at Ely Cathedral, and now seeing him convicted has forever tainted what should have been a poignant reminder of our daughter Jessica's life.

"We would like to express our gratitude to the other family liaison officers and the murder investigation team for their continued support throughout the investigation, trial and to date.

"The use of our grief as part of Brian Stevens's defence in this trial as left us with a sense of betrayal.

"However, the rest of the team have restored our faith throughout an incredibly harrowing time."

The Chapmans said they would be making no further comment on the case.